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New Offshore Drone Use Guidelines Published

2nd February 2017

Here's how you can remain compliant.

Trade association Oil & Gas UK has just published a new set of guidelines to help businesses and contractors working offshore use unmanned aerial systems (UAS) safely and to ensure that they remain compliant with the safety and operating standards already in place on the UK Continental Shelf.

The new guide has been developed by the organisation in collaboration with UAS operators and industry and aviation safety experts. Its aim is to encourage operators working offshore who do intend to use drone technology to consider the entire operating and safety system, not just the air vehicle, according to health, safety and environment director Mick Borwell.

He said: “The technology is particularly attractive for its use in improving safety. For example, sending unmanned aircraft instead of people into confined spaces to conduct inspections reduces risk and is also effective and efficient. We expect their usage to grow.”

Mr Borwell went on to say that the guide has been developed as a result of numerous lessons learned in recent times, now providing information relating to best practice and procedures, as well as the certification required in order to comply with UAS regulations.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is the place to go for further information relating to permission for flying drones for commercial purposes. Applying for permission for aerial work with the CAA is only from a safety perspective, as you may need to check with other relevant organisations in order to remain compliant with their rules and regulations as well.